A bittersweet moment it promises to be for Shaun Lunt, who misses out on his testimonial match for Hull KR on Saturday – but the Robins hooker insists he’s looking forwards, rather than what he’s conquered.

Struck down with an abscess on his spine, an illness which has stunted his Rovers career since mid-September, the 31-year-old will sit out the visit of Toronto Wolfpack to KCOM Craven Park and instead, watch on from the sidelines.

The last four months haven’t been without their struggles, but Lunt’s achievements over the last ten years will at least help in some way to block out the trauma he’s overcome in recent times.

Hull KR's Shaun Lunt. (Image: SWpix)

“It’s surreal to be having my testimonial. When I first started playing, you never think that one day you’re going to be granted one,” Lunt told the Mail. “My time has come and I’m really proud but gutted not to be playing,”

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“I’ve had plenty of highlights – I’ve been fortunate to play at Wembley a few times. I’ve represented our country in Australia, I’ve won a Grand Final, the League, been promoted with Rovers too.

“That promotion year was one of the highlights, I’ll never forget that year. 2016 was tough but to bounce straight back up was fantastic.”

A MOMENT TO REMEMBER: Hull KR's Shaun Lunt with his son after promotion in 2017. (Image: SWpix)

Giving an update on his condition, Lunt says he’s making great progress with his fitness, after slowly re-entering training with the team.

“I have to stay positive and keep moving forward. When I do a bit of training it is how I pull up the next day. It’s trial and error. It’s a bit frustrating but I’m improving each day. I feel like I’m making inroads, going forward two steps and one back rather than the other way around. Mentally, I feel good too,” he added.

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Hull KR 2019 season

“This illness is the lowest point in my life, never mind rugby, it’s put a lot of things into perspective. It’s been a really tough time for my family and I. This injury goes way past rugby, it’s my livelihood.

“I count myself lucky I’m here today, never mind playing rugby. I’ve come to realise that what I’ve gone through is very tough. I’m looking forward to now putting it all behind me and getting back on the field.”

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